Updated for 2024- 27/11/2024
Christmas events in Norfolk 2024
Winter and Christmas (in particular) are a fantastic time to visit Norfolk; there is an abundance of winter wildlife, some of the best shopping in the UK and a selection of festive shows to get you in the spirit.
With the nights getting darker and the days getting colder, we’re looking ahead to December to see which top tourist sites in Norfolk have festive plans.
Love Norfolk as much as we do? Check out 10 reasons to visit the North Norfolk Coast and 5 places to see a romantic sunset in Norfolk.
This is the first in our series of local guides to December & the Christmas - check out what’s on in Lincolnshire in December, festive events in Essex, Christmas events in Suffolk and things to do in December in East Yorkshire and December events in North Yorkshire!
1. The Cromer Pier Christmas Show
Going to the Cromer Pier Christmas Show is a must, this Christmas activity is highly rated from families across Norfolk, and as they say on their website “Christmas begins when The Cromer Pier Christmas Show opens!”. The Cromer Pier Christmas Show runs from 16th November and closes on 29th December.
Expect all the usual West End production values including our jaw-dropping 8-meter video wall delivering sensational special effects to a whole new level, alongside our much loved traditional scene sets and dazzling bespoke costumes.
Visit the the Cromer Pier website for more details on booking your tickets.
2. Christmas Shopping in Norwich
Norwich is one of the most complete medieval cities in the UK, and the historic streets and structures come to life during the Christmas period. With twinkling lights, enlivening restaurants and bars, the festive spirit is high here in Norwich.
The Norwich Lanes are home to over 300 independent shops and eateries, and there is truly something for everyone in this vibrant and cultured part of the city. If you are still in search of the perfect and unique gift for your loved ones, then this is the place to hit the shops.
Norwich favourite department store Jarrold is a two time winner of the Uk’s independent Department Store of the Year! Founded by John Jarrold in Suffolk in 1770, it moved to Norwich in 1823 and has been a flagship store ever since - find multiple floors of homewares, beauty, clothes and stationary, plus a sports shop featuring Norwich City FC Fan Hub, a Deli and Food Store.
Why not visit one of the many Antique stores in Norwich for a quirkier, second hand gift for your loved ones? Check out Norwich-favourite Looses Emporium down Magdalen Street, featuring 60+ dealers of antiques and vintage items ranging from clothes, vinyls, books, jewellery, furniture and more.
3. Luminate Sandringham at the Sandringham Estate
Luminate Sandringham follows a spectacular, illuminated trail around the historic Royal parkland of the Sandringham Estate featuring ambient music and stunning light displays.
Wrap up warm as the trail takes place outside and after dark, but you can warm up with some toasted marshmallows or a mulled wine offered on site.
Luminate Sandringham runs from 21st November - 24th December every evening, taking 60-90 minutes to follow the trail. Tickets must be pre-booked online in advance, you can book your tickets for the Sandringham light trail for an entry slot every 15 minutes, with tickets from £15.00 per adult and £10.00 per child.
4. Check out the winter wildlife in Norfolk
Over the festive season, the Norfolk nature reserves are abundant with wildlife, some of which have travelled thousands of miles to reach the county and settle into their winter residence. Pack your binoculars and keep an eye out for the migrating pink-footed geese, bittern, bearded tits and marsh harriers that will be filling the skies and dotted along the reserves.
The Norfolk seals also offer a spectacle during the festive period, with the Grey seals having their young between November and January. You might spot them wobbling around the Norfolk coast in places such as Horsey, Wells Harbour or on the Sandbanks at Holkham. Make sure to enjoy the seals from a distance and give them lots of space.
5. Christmas Spectacular at Thursford
Thursford is home to the most famous Christmas Spectacular, and award winners of the best Christmas experience in 2024! The show will run twice a day from the 8th of November until the 23rd of December, Thursford’s Christmas Spectacular is the largest Christmas show in the country.
Our Christmas Spectacular is an extravaganza of non-stop singing, dancing, music, humour and variety. It’s a fast moving celebration of the festive season featuring an eclectic mix of both seasonal and year round favourites. With a cast of 130 this is the biggest Christmas show of its kind in Europe!
Enchanted Journey of Light at Thursford
You could also check out Enchanted Journey of Light, an immersive experience of light and sound, through to Santa’s Magical Journey with fairy tale characters, polar bears, and giant-sized teddy bears, continuing to a 4-acre Lantern Light Extravaganza. Running from 29th November until 24th December. Booking is essential, with a maximum of 6 tickets per group.
6. Christmas Spectacular at Great Yarmouth’s Hippodrome Circus
It’s Britain’s last remaining total circus building, the Great Yarmouth’s Hippodrome Circus is bringing back its legendary Christmas Spectacular show from December 7th to January 5th. With hosts Jack Jay and Ben Langley, this year the show features an incredible cast of over 60 world-class performers and the legendary Water Spectacular. A Norfolk tradition for many, be sure to book your tickets to the Hippodrome Circus Christmas Spectacular.
7. WINTER WONDERLAND NORWICH
Running from 22nd November - 5th January, Norwich’s Winter Wonderland sets to return to the Norfolk Showground, its East Anglia spectacular Christmas destination. Thrill-seekers can enjoy exciting big rides, while little ones will love the smaller attractions and the chance to meet Santa. Wander through a real Christmas tree maze, savour delicious hot drinks and indulge in hearty, warm meals from the Christmas market. Plus, don’t miss the chance to skate on the largest ice rink outside of London. Winter Wonderland Norwich is not to be missed!
Whether it’s a family get-together, or an escape to find some peace, why not enjoy your Christmas in one of our holiday homes in Norfolk and enjoy all the festivities the county has on offer?
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